Ah, the comfort of a casserole—it’s like a warm hug from the oven. This cheesy chicken casserole, with its gooey layers of cheese and tender chicken, is pure bliss in a dish. I remember the last time I made it, the smell alone was enough to bring everyone to the kitchen, noses first.
Steps
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken pieces, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and both types of shredded cheese until well combined.
- Gently fold the cooked egg noodles into the chicken mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Transfer the chicken and noodle mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted margarine and mix thoroughly.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole, followed by a sprinkling of poppy seeds if desired.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Ingredients
- 3-4 chicken breasts, chopped and cooked or 1 (14 oz) can of chicken
- 16 oz egg noodles, cooked
- 24 oz sour cream
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup
- 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
- ¼ cup margarine, melted
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds (optional)
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
- Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other types of pasta, such as rotini or penne, depending on your preference or what you have available.
- Is it possible to use a different cheese variety?
- Absolutely, you can experiment with different cheeses. While cheddar and mozzarella are recommended, you could also try using Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Simply assemble it as instructed, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bake it until the topping is golden and the casserole is heated through.
- Are poppy seeds necessary for the recipe?
- Poppy seeds are optional and primarily add a subtle flavor and texture. If you prefer not to use them or don’t have them on hand, you can omit them without significantly altering the dish.
- Can leftover cooked chicken be used in place of fresh chicken?
- Certainly! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to save time. Just make sure it’s chopped into bite-sized pieces before mixing with the other ingredients.
Tips
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: To prevent the noodles from becoming mushy during baking, cook them until they are just slightly firm to the bite, as they will continue to soften in the oven.
- Add Seasoning to Taste: Before baking, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, especially if you are using canned chicken, which can be less flavorful.
- Enhance the Topping: For an extra crunchy topping, consider mixing in some breadcrumbs or additional types of crushed crackers with the Ritz for added texture.
- Use Fresh Chicken: If time permits, consider using freshly cooked chicken breasts instead of canned chicken for a richer flavor and better texture in your casserole.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
